The club’s standout winger, Raphinha, is having a best-ever season at 28 years old and is involved in ongoing contract negotiations while waiting for a solution.
The 28-year-old Brazilian has been key for Hansi Flick’s side: 31 goals and 25 assists in all competitions would make him a favorite for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Both parties – Raphinha wants to stay and Barcelona want to secure his future – are struggling to settle on some crucial terms as interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and other Premier League clubs adds pressure to the negotiations.
Raphinha, signed until 2027, wants to extend the deal another two years until 2029 and obtain a salary that reflects that of one of Europe’s top attackers.
Barcelona, where responsibility is a priority due to their financial limitations, offered to extend Raphinha’s contract an additional year with a further optional year and an €80 million release clause that would be a little disappointing, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Raphinha’s agent met with sporting director Deco in early May to continue talks about a contract extension and was encouraged by his attitude and performances with the team, but the talks are still in their infancy.
Add to this, Al-Hilal’s reported €200 million bid and a large four-year contract worth €50 million a year, makes for an appealing alternative.
Raphinha is committed to Barcelona, “It is illogical to think about reaching the top of football without Barcelona”.
He put together a historic Champions League season, which included eclipsing Messi for goal contributions.
The problem is that Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea are all watching this issue, and Barcelona somehow has to solve its financial issues to meet their demands.
In the summer window, solving this issue will be key to Barcelona keeping their star winger in the chase for their La Liga title.
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